Datacentrix focuses on skilling up local youth through learnership programme
Provider of high performing and secure ICT solutions, Datacentrix has provided more than 100 learners from Gauteng, the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal with a year of both practical and theoretical training, in a bid to provide previously disadvantaged students with a solid IT qualification as well as experience within the marketplace.
Rejoice Mamphitha, Datacentrix’ head of HR, explains that the organisation has targeted school leavers, and learners that have undergone basic IT training, in order to help improve the quality of life of the local workforce, and, at the same time, diminish the IT skills shortage in South Africa.
“During the 12-month training period, learners undergo theoretical training through Datacentrix’ training partner, TorqueIT, and also shadow subject matter experts within Datacentrix for ‘on the job’ work experience,” she explains. “The end result is a Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) qualification which certifies that our learners are capable of deploying, building, designing, optimising and operating technologies and can make the design and technology decisions necessary to ensure successful technology implementation projects.
“This type of exposure is certainly assisting to bring more ‘marketable’ skills into the local sector,” Mamphitha adds. “Our learnerships are moderated and approved by the MICT SETA and are registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).”
Says Samkelisiwe Masengemi, one of the programme’s learners: “The Datacentrix learnership programme has given me an opportunity to pursue my career path and has given me exposure to the corporate world. In addition, it has allowed me to build my individual growth, preparing and moulding me, while enabling me to enhance my strength and knowledge within the business environment. I have learnt how to work with a number of different individuals, and look forward to gaining even greater knowledge and moving along with the vision and mission of the company.”
“Being part of the Datacentrix learnership programme has been a dream come true because the company is one of the most successful IT companies in South Africa,” adds Refilwe Bloem, who is a learner within Datacentrix’ Infrastructure division. “The teams that we work with are always happy to assist us when we need help, you could say we are more like a family. Most importantly, I would like to thank Datacentrix for affording us such an opportunity.”
The organisation is currently in the process of opening a fully-fledged training centre that will allow for both current and future learners and other internal employees to study further and broaden their scope.